The Vale of Berkeley Railway Charitable Trust has passed a critical milestone in its aim to run heritage trains at Sharpness, by obtaining a Mainline Licence Exemption from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).
This gives the Vale of Berkley Railway (VoBR) permission to operate trains at its rapidly developing heritage centre, located at the former freight exchange sidings that served the Sharpness branch and Sharpness Docks. It’s a major advance towards the VoBR’s objective of running heritage trains along the line which last saw passengers in 1964.
VoBR Chairman Howard Parker said: “The ORR approval means that in the eyes of this government body, we are now officially a railway. It’s the breakthrough we’ve been working towards, and also the start of many challenges. This includes completing our infrastructure and ensuring our operational volunteers have all the training needed to ensure they’re safe and competent drivers, firemen, guards and shunters.
“The ORR commented that our Safety Management System was particularly impressive for an embryonic heritage railway. This is a tribute to the outstanding work of our volunteer Phil Macnamara, who sadly passed away s before he could see this day arrive.
“We now need to build a new workshop to restore, maintain and shelter our locomotives and rolling stock. This requires a massive fundraising push, and we ask everyone who wants to see trains running again at Sharpness to donate via our website at www.vobr.org.uk.
“Our ongoing construction work means we’re not yet open to the public, but you can follow our progress on our website, where you’ll also find links to our social media channels.”
The Vale of Berkeley Railway (VoBR) aims to reintroduce passenger trains to the Sharpness branch, providing a heritage attraction and learning experience that demonstrates the importance of the railway to Sharpness Docks and the local community.
“We welcome people of all backgrounds, interests and abilities to join us on our exciting journey. Discover more, including how to join us and perhaps volunteer, at www.vobr.org.uk,” added Mr Parker.
